Quantitative trait loci mapping for biomass yield traits in a Lolium inbred line derived F2 population

Lolium perenne L. (perennial ryegrass) is the principle forage grass species in temperate agriculture. Improving biomass yield still remains one of the most important aims of current forage breeding programmes. A quantitative trait locus (QTL) study investigating biomass yield traits in perennial ryegrass was carried out in greenhouse and field environments. The study is based on an F₂ population consisting of 360 individuals derived from two inbred grandparents where the F₁ has a large biomass yield phenotype. For both experimental environments co-localized QTL for biomass yield traits including fresh and dry weight and dry matter were identified on linkage groups 2, 3 and 7. A major QTL for fresh and dry weight was identified on LG 3 which explained around 30% of the phenotypic variance in the field experiment. The findings of this study are discussed with regard for their potential in research and breeding.